/- Darius -/

As I stood at the center of the circle, surrounded by vampires who eyed me with a mixture of hunger and curiosity. My muscles tensed, prepared for the inevitable clash that would ensue, but I held my ground, refusing to show any sign of weakness.

As the tension mounted, the mysterious figure stepped forward from the shadows, a familiar silhouette that sent a shiver down my spine. It was Lucian, my trusted friend and right-hand man, standing in front of me with a stoic expression that betrayed none of the fear that I felt deep within.

The revelation hit me like a thunderbolt, shattering the very foundation...